Arslanian Leaves Weber To Coach At Utah State

Dave Arslanian, who has directed Division I-AA Weber State’s football program for nine seasons, is stepping up to become head coach at I-A Utah State.

Arslanian’s appointment was announced late Saturday by USU athletic director Chuck Bell. Arslanian, 48, replaces John L. Smith, his college roommate at Weber State, at the Big West Conference school. Smith was named as Louisville’s new coach on Nov. 24.

“Dave and John L. run the same offense and defense, and all of this will help make this the smoothest transition,” Bell said.

Arslanian, who will make a base salary of $90,000 a year over the four-year life of his USU contract, said leaving Weber was not an easy decision to make.

“Weber State was my life for 17 years, and I didn’t think I would ever leave. But this was an opportunity I just couldn’t pass up,” he said. “I don’t know a good time to leave a place that you love.

“I know that John L. is leaving the Utah State program in excellent shape, and I’m anxious to carry it forward.”